Donna Lea Callea

Donna Lea Callea, 90, of Rockford, IL passed away on April 12, 2021 at her home.
She was born on November 7, 1930 in Rockford, IL, the daughter of John and Iva Demico.
Donna met the love of her life, Joe, at the Italian Choral Club. His hysterical way of impressing Donna and method of flirting with her was by commenting on the plaid kilted skirt she had worn that night. His words were “where did you put the potatoes that came in that sack you are wearing?" Donna's first impression was, "what a smart alec!"; however, could not resist his humor, charm, and good looks. They were married on October 20, 1951 at St. Anthony of Padua Church in Rockford, IL. They shared 54 years of marriage, before he passed away in 2005.
Donna worked in Phoenix, Arizona as a construction secretary for several years. She enjoyed working and was very proud of her position.
Donna had fond memories as a young girl, listening to the hymns of the sisters in her church, especially singing Ave Maria. This definitely explains her respect and adoration of the Virgin Mother Mary. As a teenager, she loved playing tennis on her high school team.
Donna and Joe loved the comfort of their own home where they welcomed all their family. She had a sassy sense of humor and enjoyed watching the current news, Turner Classic Movies, and listening to Big Band Music.
She is survived by her children; Linda (Robert) Estes of Marietta, GA, Suzanne (Robert) Ober of San Antonio, TX; grandchildren, Joseph (Tabitha Press) Estes, Marianne (Donald) Hayden, Caroline (Robin) Kelner, Ryan Ober, Michael Ober; great-grandchildren, Lane, Harper, Brooks, and Hampton; sisters-in-law, Rose Callea, Mary Mulé, Helen Callea, and brother-in-law, Michael Callea.
Donna is preceded in death by her beloved husband, Joseph; parents, John and Iva, In-laws, Frank and Digna Callea; sisters-in-law, Jennie Callea, Olga Callea and brothers-in-law, Bennie Callea, Vito F. Mulé.
Cremation rights have been accorded with a private memorial mass held in Georgia and Texas. Burial will be at Calvary Catholic Cemetery. The family is thankful for the loving care she received by her caregiver, Dianna, and the OSF Hospice staff.
Memorials may be given to St. Jude Children’s Hospital. Funeral Arrangements entrusted by Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory, 1860 S. Mulford Rd. Rockford, IL 61108.